New Job - New Career?
A few years ago I decided on a career change and took a job as an activities co-ordinator in local Day Centre for severely disabled young people and adults. I soon discovered that it was a very hands-on job involving a lot of personal support for clients including toiling, cleaning and feeding.
Out of my depth
The great majority of the clients visiting the Day Centre were severely disabled and non-verbal. As a new member of staff I found having to support them to be a stressful and challenging task as I had no guidance on their particular needs or vulnerabilities - I didnt even know their names so I couldn't ask for advice on their needs.
Looking for help
I asked my manager whether there was any way of identifying each client and finding out about their ability level, methods of communication and critical needs. I was told that the management team had been trying to put together a system for years but had not been able to come up with a suitable format.
A Problem looking for a solution
I discovered that my experience was not unique, many embers of staff had experienced stress and anxiety when asked to support clients they did not know. This was also true for temporary/agency staff who dealt with it by remaining detached and tried to avoid building relationships with clients.
The Care Passport project
I decided to take on the task of creating a new system to help us identify and support the clients effectively and thereby reduce stress and the possibility of harming our very vulnerable clients - I called the little booklets "Care Passports".
Successful conclusion
After the new Care Passports were launched the communication barriers were quickly broken down and staff enjoyed being able to relate to all the clients. The stress free environment they helped to create made a big difference for everyone.
Results
- Staff felt more supported and did not leave so there was more continuity of care and lower recruitment and training costs.
- Because the staff were happier and staff shortages were reduced the clients enjoyed the more relaxed surroundings essential for their well-being.
- Referals increased as Parents, Guardians and Local Authorities could see the evidence of a higher standard of care.